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Ex-Perth Amboy Mayor’s Corruption Case Goes To Jury

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NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — The corruption case against former Perth Amboy mayor and state legislator Joseph Vas is now in the hands of a jury.

Vas is charged with accepting illegal campaign contributions. Government prosecutors say he profited from the flip sale of a city apartment building and used some of the money for his unsuccessful 2006 congressional campaign.

Lawyers for Vas and his co-defendant, former mayoral aide Melvin Ramos, wrapped up their closing arguments Tuesday in federal court in Newark.

Vas’ attorney didn’t call any witnesses during the nine-day trial.

Vas also faces state corruption charges related to the alleged billing of personal expenses to the city of Perth Amboy while he was mayor.